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BugsyJA · Jun 10, 2004, 02:27 PM

I'm looking to get a FireWire scanner that does photopgraphs and negatives at a decent speed. I've narrowed my choices to the Epson 4870 and Canon 9900F. They may be a bit pricey, but it seems that's the cost for FireWire.

Does anyone have any input that can sway me in either direction? I have never used a Canon or Epson scanner so I'm on the fence here. I have an old UMAX and will never buy from them again as they left us MacOSX user high and dry with out new drivers. Was using VPC to get scans. Anyway, I'm just looking for some real world experience on the two scanners, any input, positive or negative would be appreciated. I have a project coming up and want it to be as easy and compatible as possible with OSX (10.3.x).

Thanks in advance!

bmhome1 · Jun 10, 2004, 03:15 PM

I think you will find the 4870 very highly-regarded by graphics pros and pro photographers, the best flatbed scanner currently at its price. I have the prior 3200 and am amazed at the transparency scans from 4x5 and even 2 1/4. Less great for 35mm, dedicated film scanner better for that tiny size. But for flat art and trans and negs larger, there's nothing better under $500.

BugsyJA · Jun 11, 2004, 07:48 PM

How do you like the software? Easy to use? Or do you scan right into Photoshop?

TMLai · Jun 13, 2004, 06:56 AM

The new Epson Scan Software is a major improvement over the prevous offer. I can now have full screen preview on my 23" Cinema. There is no standalone mode on the software. I always scan from Photoshop.

I am still experimenting on the color management side of the software. Using Monaco EZcolor (Full retail version). I managed to produce a near perfect printer profile for my Canon i950 printer using this scanner. But I am still unable to get the scanner profile right. (i.e. color of the preview window don't look the same as the final scan when view in Photoshop.

BugsyJA · Jul 7, 2004, 10:14 PM

Just wanted to say thanks for your help, I went with the Epson 4870 and it has been a complete joy to work with. I use it directly within Photoshop Elements, it's been fast, scans have been great, software is real easy to use. I did not do negative or slide scans yet, will try an experiment soon. Thanks again.